constrict

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constrict different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of constrict are compress, condense, contract, deflate, and shrink. While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter.

the throat is constricted by a tight collar

Where would compress be a reasonable alternative to constrict?

Although the words compress and constrict have much in common, compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance.

compressed cotton into bales

When is condense a more appropriate choice than constrict?

The words condense and constrict can be used in similar contexts, but condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content.

condense the essay into a paragraph

When could contract be used to replace constrict?

In some situations, the words contract and constrict are roughly equivalent. However, contract applies to a drawing together of surfaces or particles or a reduction of area or length.

caused her muscles to contract

In what contexts can deflate take the place of constrict?

The words deflate and constrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas.

deflate the balloon

When might shrink be a better fit than constrict?

The meanings of shrink and constrict largely overlap; however, shrink implies a contracting or a loss of material and stresses a falling short of original dimensions.

the sweater will shrink when washed

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of constrict Any form of nicotine exposure can damage your blood vessels, leaving them irritated or constricted, Dr. DeLott says. Erica Sloan, SELF, 21 Feb. 2025 Ginger may also support healthy blood flow by reducing platelet aggregation (the clumping of blood cells that can constrict blood flow, leading to blood clots). Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 10 Feb. 2025 The pain was searing in blood vessels impossibly constricted. Grace Hussar, New York Times, 24 Jan. 2025 But if History is on the march again, its movements appear strangely constricted. Matthew Karp, Harper's Magazine, 2 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for constrict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrict
Verb
  • The team found that mature giant kelp beds shrank after the 2016 Soberanes fire in Monterey County, the 2017 Thomas fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, and the 2018 Woolsey fire in the Santa Monica Mountains.
    Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 2 Mar. 2025
  • The war has also shrunk Russia’s middle class, said Ribakova.
    Anna Cooban, CNN, 1 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Short bursts around the black hole are likely caused by disturbances in the disk—compressing plasma to produce a temporary flash of radiation.
    Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025
  • In court, his lawyers argued that officers compressed his chest with their body weight, leading him to asphyxiate.
    Sharon Bernstein, Sacramento Bee, 6 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity and concision.
    Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 3 Mar. 2025
  • The conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.
    Chris Perugini, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The international order forged after World War II is imploding, squeezed on all sides by the return of strongmen, nationalism and spheres of influence — with President Trump leading the charge.
    Zachary Basu, Axios, 28 Feb. 2025
  • Risks remain—policy shifts could stall, or DOGE’s efficiency drive might squeeze budgets—but the upside potential is tantalizing.
    Jaime Catmull, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constrict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constrict. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on constrict

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